Ideas Inspiration Information

Reflections on QuiltCon 2013: Quilts and Other Inspirations (Part 1)

Texas, made by Dana Michaelson, quilted by Angela Walters; seen @ QuiltCon 2013.

It’s been two weeks since I’ve returned from Texas, and I feel as if I’m finally beginning to digest all that I experienced at QuiltCon 2013. In short: FAB-U-LOUS! Not only were there lots of terrific quilts (and way-too-tempting vendors), but the host city of Austin was loaded with inspiration. I came home with so much good stuff to share that I’ll be dedicating both this post and my Friday entry to a colorful, quilt-loaded recap.

QuiltCon 2013 was the first-ever large-scale quilt show and conference to be sponsored by the Modern Quilt Guild. From its first meeting of 21 quilters in Los Angeles, the Modern Quilt Guild has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, with approximately 200 chapters spread throughout the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, India, Brazil, Ireland, the UK, and continental Europe. After a poll of its members, the MQG selected Austin as the site for QuiltCon 2013–the perfect opportunity for a midway meet-up with my longtime NC (quilting) buddy, Mary Underwood.

Even the walk from hotel to the Convention Center was ripe with inspiration. Downtown Austin features an inspiring mix of historic and modern architecture, often side by side.

Thank you so much for sharing your pics! You showed quilts that i haden’t seen before. Wish i could have seen hem in person. Sherri Lynn Woods’ log cabin is my favorite quilt in he universe! And you showed mine under the same heading! I feel honored!

You are most welcome, Cinzia. I loved your quilt! Sherri Lynn’s was also a favorite: pops of color, use of wool, improv style, surface stitching. I wish now that I had taken a detail to show her wonderful big-stitch hand quilting. Best, Darra